American Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, primarily abundant in the Appalachian region and Pennsylvania.
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot and decay resistance, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight fine grain with characteristic flat-sawn cathedral patterns, faint curly figure/ripple in places, and small dark gum pockets/flecks visible.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light pinkish-brown to rich reddish-brown, juxtaposed with distinct creamy yellowish-white sapwood edges. The fresh raw heartwood will age and darken significantly to a deeper reddish-brown with exposure to UV light and air.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood rot and decay resistance, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on lumber grade, thickness, and proportion of sapwood.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled and planed lumber assembled into a glued tabletop glue-up panel in a active workshop environment.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List). Abundant and sustainably harvested in North America, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, paneling, turning, musical instruments, veneer, and cutting boards.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily abundant in the Appalachian region and Pennsylvania.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes, turns, sands, and glues exceptionally well, though care must be taken with cross-grain planing to avoid tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oil finishes (penetrating oil like tung or linseed oil) or clear coat finishes like shellac and lacquer accentuate the natural depth and allow the classic cherry darkening process to occur beautifully. Stains are rarely needed.
Notable Features
Distinctive gum pockets/streaks, high propensity for rapid UV darkening (patina), smooth satin texture, and mild pleasant aroma when worked.
